So you’ve noticed your bub is unsettled, drooling bucket loads, and is chewing on just about anything within reach? It sounds like teething might be around the corner for your little one, and thankfully we’ve got some great natural remedies for teething to save you (and your baby’s gums!)
Before you rule out teething because you’re not seeing little white spots or any ruptured gums, it certainly does not mean your child hasn’t started the teething process.
They may simply be at the first stages of teething – pre-teething, which can start as early on as 12 weeks.
Teething can last up to 18 months so buckle up, you’re in for one crazy ride.
10 Natural Remedies for Teething
But before you rush out for a pain-killer, you may want to consider a natural alternative to alleviate the symptoms of teething (besides your finger!). Here are 10 natural remedies to try out.
1. Amber Teething Necklaces & Bracelets
It might seem a bit “new-age mum” but, when you’re woken up for the fourteenth time because bub is uncomfortable, you’ll try anything! The way these work is simple, body heat from the bub releases a natural acid from the beads which is anti-inflammatory and soothes bub’s gums.
DISCLAIMER: SIDS and Kids and the ACCC recommend only using these when your baby is being supervised and remove them when they aren’t under your watch.
2. Breastmilk & Formula Ice Blocks
It’s one of those, ‘why didn’t I think of that?’ ideas that just works a treat by numbing the inflamed gums all while giving your baby milk they would drink any other day. It’s also a great summer treat for littlies.
3. Coconut Oil
Is there anything coconut oil can’t solve?! This natural cold-pressed oil has soothing properties and when a small amount is rubbed on the gums it can alleviate sore gums. It’s also great for any old toothache.
4. Cold Veggies
A great way to start your bub getting used to the different tastes of veggies, while solving any teething pains is by popping some cut up cucumbers or carrots into the fridge or freezer then hand them over to gum on. The cold will numb the gums and give them relief. Remember to supervise this or put them into a mesh food holder.
5. Frozen or Cold Wash Cloths
Soaking a clean baby wash cloth in camomile tea or boiled then cooled water can be quite helpful. Not only will the coolness help any pain but the actual texture of the cloth can help any irritations that the gums are experiencing by lightly rubbing on them. Freezing the cloths not only means they will remain cooler for longer but will also be more effective in numbing the gums.
6. Vanilla Extract
Although there isn’t much scientific evidence of vanilla extract being effective for teething, generations of women have been using it to alleviate their children’s teething pains. Just rub a couple of drops on the gums to soothe. Adding a drop to water may also help in relieving tummy pains that may be due to swallowing too much saliva.
7. Ginger
It is widely known in Eastern Medicine that ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is used for any inflammations. You can cut a small chunk of ginger and rub it on bub’s teeth to reduce pain.
8. Punkin Butt Teething Oil
What kind of butt?! All jokes aside this homeopathic remedy is safe and works effectively. It cools, numbs and soothes all within a few minutes. It can be purchased at homeopathic stores or some health food stores.
9. Clove Oil
Clove Oil has a numbing effect which is perfect for your little one’s sore and inflamed gums. Apply one drop to one drop of almond or coconut oil and apply to gums.
10. Cold Metal Spoon
A rather unusual recommendation by the American Dental Association is to chill a metal spoon in the fridge then let your baby go to town on it.
Have you got any other sure fire teething remedies? Share the with us below!
